This is the oldest and most
important defensive work to have been built along
the North African coastline by the Arab conquerors
in the early days of Islam.

Founded in 796, this building underwent several
modifications during the medieval period. Initially,
it formed a quadrilateral and then was composed
of four buildings giving onto two inner courtyards.

A spiral stair of about a hundred steps leads
to the watchtower form the top of which visual
messages were exchanged at night with the towers
of neighbouring Ribats and from which visitors
can admire a superb view over the city of Monastir
and the open sea.

In the summer the Ribat houses various events
that are part of the international festival of
Monastir.